Nineteen counties in Illinois reported a West Nile virus positive mosquito batch, bird, and/or human case last year. Those reports accompany a total of 34 people contracting the virus last year, with three deaths.

“We are seeing are large increase in West Nile virus activity and this first human case is a good reminder that we all need to take precautions,” said Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck. “The mosquitoes that typically carry West Nile virus, commonly called the house mosquito, are not as noticeable as the swarms of floodwater mosquitoes we see during rainy summers. Even if it does not look like there are a lot of mosquitoes out, house mosquitoes are stealthy biters and their virus infection rate is increasing rapidly, so make sure to use insect repellent.”

Common symptoms of West Nile infections include fever, nausea, headache and muscle aches, though many show no symptoms at all.

The IDPH recommends reducing outdoor exposure between dusk and dawn, when mosquitos are most active, having screens on all windows, keeping windows and doors shut and wearing mosquito repellant and protective clothing to prevent West Nile.